Letting property in 2025 requires landlords in London and the UK to navigate an increasingly complex legal landscape.
At London Estate Agency, we guide landlords through the lettings process, ensuring full compliance with updated regulations and offering peace of mind through our expert support.
Below is a comprehensive legal checklist for landlords letting residential property in 2025.
Confirm Your Legal Right to Let the Property
Before proceeding with any tenancy, ensure you have the legal authority to rent the property:
Confirm ownership or landlord consent if you’re subletting.
Check mortgage terms allow for letting.
Leasehold properties must allow subletting in the lease agreement.
London Estate Agency can verify this as part of our onboarding process.
Carry Out Right to Rent Checks
All landlords are legally required to verify a tenant’s legal right to reside in the UK under the Immigration Act 2014:
Inspect original documents (e.g. passport, visa, BRP).
Keep dated copies securely.
Ensure follow-up checks for time-limited visas.
We perform Right to Rent checks in-house as part of our Tenant Screening service.
Provide a Valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
All rental properties must meet minimum energy efficiency standards:
A current EPC rating of E or above is required.
In 2025, new tenancies may need a minimum C rating under proposed legislative updates.
EPCs are valid for 10 years.
Need one fast? We offer same-day EPC assessments through the London Estate Agency.
Install Required Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Landlords must:
Fit smoke alarms on every floor.
Install carbon monoxide alarms with solid fuel appliances in rooms.
Ensure all alarms are tested and working before the tenancy begins.
We handle compliance checks and installation during your pre-tenancy setup.
Provide a Legally Binding Tenancy Agreement
The tenancy agreement must reflect the latest housing laws and protect both parties:
Use an up-to-date Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) agreement.
Include key clauses such as rent terms, notice periods, and deposit details.
Both parties must hold signed copies.
Our in-house legal team drafts tenancy agreements for all managed lets.
Secure the Tenant’s Deposit in a Government Scheme
The deposit must be registered with an approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS):
Do this within 30 calendar days of receiving the deposit.
Provide the Prescribed Information and scheme details to the tenant.
Failure can result in fines and eviction delays.
We register all deposits on behalf of our landlords and provide complete documentation.
Provide All Mandatory Pre-Tenancy Documents
At the start of every tenancy, landlords must supply:
The EPC certificate
A valid Gas Safety Certificate
The most recent How to Rent guide
A valid EICR (Electrical Safety Certificate)
Deposit protection details
London Estate Agency packages and sends all documents to tenants digitally and securely.
Carry Out Annual Gas Safety Checks
All properties with gas appliances require a Gas Safety Certificate (CP12):
Conducted annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Provide a copy to the tenant before they move in.
Keep certificates for at least two years.
We coordinate and oversee gas safety inspections for our managed properties.
Conduct an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
Electrical safety regulations require:
An EICR every 5 years for all rental properties.
Immediate action if Category 1 (dangerous) hazards are found.
Tenants must be given a copy of the report.
We work with qualified electricians across London to provide fully compliant EICRs.
Obtain HMO or Selective Licences Where Required
If your property:
Houses 3 or more unrelated tenants, or
It is located in a selective licensing borough,
you must obtain the correct licence from the local authority.
We advise on licensing rules in each London borough and apply on your behalf if required.
Understand Eviction Regulations: Section 21 vs Section 8
Landlords must understand the legal basis for eviction:
Section 21 (no-fault) requires full legal compliance, including documentation.
Section 8 can be used in cases like rent arrears or anti-social behaviour.
In 2025, reforms may abolish Section 21, changing the eviction process entirely.
Our legal team ensures notices are served correctly and legally, with minimal risk.
Insure Your Rental Property Appropriately
While not mandatory, landlord insurance protects you from unexpected costs:
Cover for buildings, contents, legal fees, and loss of rent.
Some mortgage lenders require proof of landlord insurance.
We recommend insurers who specialize in buy-to-let cover in London.
Maintain Clear Records and Documentation
Ensure that you keep records of:
Tenancy agreements
Rent receipts and bank statements
Safety certificates and licences
Communications with tenants
We use a secure landlord portal to store and share all your property documents.
Register with the ICO for GDPR Compliance
As a landlord, you process personal data and must comply with data protection laws:
Register with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
Issue a Privacy Notice to all tenants.
Safeguard all tenant data.
This is included in our landlord onboarding pack at London Estate Agency.
Stay Informed of Regulatory Updates
Staying updated with reforms to evictions, EPC requirements, and renting laws expected in 2025 is vital. We provide:
Monthly landlord updates
Free webinars
Personal consultations on legal changes
We ensure our clients are always compliant and ahead of the curve.
Why Work with London Estate Agency?
At London Estate Agency, we do more than find tenants — we offer a full legal compliance and property management service:
Tenant Screening & Rent Guarantee Insurance
In-house EPC and EICR inspections
Legal notices, deposits, and documentation managed
Local market knowledge tailored to London landlords
By working with us, landlords can save time, avoid legal issues, and maximize rental income in a competitive market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use Section 21 in 2025?
As of now, yes — but pending legislation may soon abolish Section 21. We monitor the changes closely and offer legal alternatives for eviction if needed.
Is landlord insurance compulsory?
Not legally, but it’s strongly recommended — especially for mortgage compliance and protection from rent arrears or property damage.
Do you offer fully managed services?
Yes. Our Fully Managed Landlord Service includes everything from finding tenants to legal compliance, maintenance, and rent collection.
How much notice do I need to give tenants?
Typically, it is two months under Section 21 or as determined by the specific grounds under Section 8. We’ll ensure your notices are compliant.
Final Thoughts
Letting property in 2025 requires attention to detail, ongoing compliance, and expert management.
Whether you’re a first-time landlord or expanding your portfolio, London Estate Agency offers the expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind you need in today’s regulated market.
Ready to rent your property with confidence?
